The Three Classical Theories of Normative Ethics and Their Implication in Psychology

Abstract

Normative ethics presents itself as a guide for how we should live and act. Since the emergence of Western philosophy, ethics has been present in speeches and philosophical works in an attempt to elucidate what is the right and best way to live and behave, in both private and public spheres. The objective of this chapter is to expose the three classical theories of normative ethics, through a historical-philosophical route, exploring philosophical writings that deal with the theme, in order to understand the contribution of each current of thought to the question proposed by Socrates: How should we live? The chapter also discusses how morality has advanced in the field of psychology.